Genesis Energy gains margin growth through renewables

Genesis Energy (ASX:GNE) logged its operating performance for the third quarter of FY26, underpinned by hydrological conditions and a disciplined pivot towards high-value market segments.

Benefitting from national lake levels sitting at 117% of the historical average, the company saw hydro generation surge to 745 GWh, an increase of 264 GWh over the prior corresponding period.

The abundance of renewable energy allowed the gentailer to scale back thermal generation to 236 GWh, as Unit 5 remained largely offline, enabling the strategic redirection of gas to industrial clients.

While total customer numbers dipped by 6.6% to 491,532, electricity netback rose by 11.2% to $173/MWh.

This indicates that while the portfolio is shrinking, the remaining margins are of higher quality.

Despite unplanned outages at the Kupe field, Genesis maintains a secure supply outlook with a substantial coal stockpile exceeding one million tonnes.

On the strategic front, the company is accelerating its Gen35 roadmap.

Milestones include the advancement of the Battery Energy Storage System at Huntly, where Stage 1 is nearing commissioning.

Expansion into solar continues, with construction commencing at Tihori and progress at sites in Leeston and Rangiriri.